A Season of Awe, Action and Environmental Awareness
Raby Estate welcomes the arrival of spring with a renewed sense of wonder and responsibility. From the thunder of High Force to the stillness of upland meadows, this remarkable landscape offers not only a place to visit but a place to cherish and protect.
As the season unfolds—sometimes with gentle warmth, sometimes with the bracing intensity typical of the North Pennines—Raby’s wildlife has begun to stir in striking and hopeful ways. Marked by global observances such as Earth Day, World Curlew Day and Endangered Species Day, spring at Raby is a powerful reminder that conservation is not a distant concern, but a daily practice grounded in place.
World Curlew Day – 21 April
The unmistakable call of the curlew echoing across the moorlands is a cherished symbol of spring in Upper Teesdale. With curlew populations declining across the UK, the work being done across Raby land to protect their breeding and feeding grounds is more important than ever. Through careful habitat management, curlews here are still given the space they need to thrive — a small but significant conservation success.
Earth Day – 22 April
This year’s Earth Day theme, Our Power, Our Planet, resonates deeply at Raby. Power, here, lies in the energy of a waterfall, the quiet strength of woodland, and the vital work of insects in the soil and amongst the grass. From sourcing local food to restoring key habitats, the estate is committed to reducing its footprint and giving back to the land that sustains it.
60 Years of the Pennine Way – 24 April
The Pennine Way celebrates six decades of inspiring walkers and nature-lovers. With parts of the trail passing close to High Force and the surrounding estate, Raby remains proud to support low-impact, slow travel and to welcome visitors at High Force seeking connection with the natural world.
International Dark Sky Week – 21–28 April
At night, the landscape reveals a different kind of beauty. Raby is home to some of England’s darkest skies, offering exceptional views of the stars. Through Stargazing Suppers at High Force, visitors are invited to experience the stories, wildlife and celestial wonders that share our skies.
Endangered Species Day – 16 May
Efforts across the estate continue to support rare and threatened species, including black grouse, lapwings and water voles. Sustainable farming, habitat restoration, and ongoing monitoring all play a role in helping wildlife return and thrive.
Beneath the Surface: Adders, Eels and Insect Revival
Raby’s spring season has also brought a series of striking ecological developments:
- Adders Up: Monitoring efforts are helping to understand and protect populations of Britain’s only native snake—a valuable indicator of moorland health.
- European Eels: In partnership with Tees Rivers Trust, the estate is supporting eel surveys to better understand the plight of this critically endangered species.
- Insect Hatch: An unusually large spring emergence of mayflies, caddisflies and damselflies has delighted naturalists and signals improved river health.
- Tadpoles in the Tees: Uncommonly warm water and low flow have created ideal conditions for tadpole development, offering an enchanting and hopeful sight for visitors and researchers alike.
Looking Ahead to Summer
With nature now firmly awakened, Raby is preparing for a vibrant summer season of engagement and discovery:
- Insect Week (23–29 June)
- Great Big Green Week (8–16 June)
Every Visit Makes a Difference
Whether walking the Deer Park, enjoying a meal at the High Force Hotel, or marvelling at the night sky, each visit to Raby Estate contributes to a shared effort to protect and celebrate this extraordinary place.
Spring 2025 is shaping up to be a season full of life, learning and renewed connection. Raby remains committed to keeping its landscapes wild, welcoming, and full of wonder — for wildlife and for all who come to experience it.
